Carbon-based smart nanomaterials in biomedicine and neuroengineering

Abstract

SummaryThe search for advanced biomimetic materials that are capable of offering a scaffold for biological tissues during regeneration or of electrically connecting artificial devices with cellular structures to restore damaged brain functions is at the forefront of interdisciplinary research in materials science. Bioactive nanoparticles for drug delivery, substrates for nerve regeneration and active guidance, as well as supramolecular architectures mimicking the extracellular environment to reduce inflammatory responses in brain implants, are within reach thanks to the advancements in nanotechnology. In particular, carbon-based nanostructured materials, such as graphene, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and nanodiamonds (NDs), have demonstrated to be highly promising materials for designing and fabricating nanoelectrodes and substrates for cell growth, by virtue of their peerless optical, electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties. In this review we discuss the state-of-the-art in the applications of nanomaterials in biological and biomedical fields, with a particular emphasis on neuroengineering.

Application of nanomedicine for crossing the blood–brain barrier: Theranostic opportunities in multiple sclerosis

“…Carbon NP can be classified into two groups, including carbon nanotubes (CNT) and carbon nanohorns (CNH). CNT which are onedimensional graphitic materials with unique structure, thermal and electrical features can be categorized into two subsets including single-walled and multi-walled CNT, with diameters of 1-2 nm and lengths from 50-1000 nm (Monaco & Giugliano 2014). Various methods such as arc discharge, laser ablation, high-pressure carbon monoxide disproportionation and chemical vapor deposition are used to produce CNT (Battigelli et al 2013).…”

Diagnosis and Treatment of Neurological and Ischemic Disorders Employing Carbon Nanotube Technology

“…Functionalization methods have been developed in order to eradicate this obstacle to augment biocompatibility [46]. Noncovalent and covalent functionalization are two procedures that are utilized to functionalize CNTs in Journal of Nanomaterials 5 …”

“…Functionalization is a pivotal procedure in achieving homogenous aqueous dispersion to tailor CNTs for biomedical applications [6,46]. This procedure modifies the physicochemical properties of the CNTs, their pharmacokinetic profiles, and biodegradability [14,51].…”

“…Neural electrical activity can be stimulated in a noninvasive manner using individual microelectrodes. MEAs are biocompatible and have a large signal to noise ratio [46]. CNTs synthesised on silicon dioxide substrates enhanced the electrical properties of CNT-MEAs [91].…”

Nanodiamonds: From Synthesis and Purification to Deposition Techniques, Hybrids Fabrication and Applications

“…Among carbon nanostructures, nanodiamonds are also considered as biomimetic materials providing a scaffold for tissue regeneration [225][226][227]. NDs were combined with polymer scaffolds either by adsorption, covalent bonding or encapsulation.…”